(she/her)
Hi! My name is Helen Farrah-McGrail and I am a licensed clinical social worker and therapist (LICSW) with three decades of professional work experience. I received my Master's degree at the University of Pittsburgh. I have experience in helping clients with a myriad of issues, especially stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, as well as clients with various medical issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
The first session begins with brief introductions and rapport building. I usually help the clients come up with goals. I will ask questions about the history and frequency of the issues at hand. I also help them put together a treatment plan designed to meet their needs.
I feel that my greatest strengths include kindness, empathy and compassion. To connect on an intimate level with my clients and help them to grow and develop in a positive manner within their lives.
In particular, I enjoy working with clients who are both eager and excited to learn and desire change for the better. In this way, I am helping them to experience life to their fullest potential.
Throughout my practice, I have found CBT to be an effective treatment for my clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety and PTSD. These skills, such as utilizing mindfulness, has been shown to be effective in managing symptoms and bettering their lives. CBT is used to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other. We’ll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a less anxious and stressed life.
I have used DBT for stress tolerance, radical acceptance and stress tolerance. For people who feel things intensely.
I have used mindfulness to keep the patient focused on the present moment. Everything from yoga to taking peaceful walks in the country.
I will ask you questions, open ended ones, in order to help you and myself better understand what you would like to work on in therapy.
You will find a kind and compassionate therapist who will empathize with you and with your feelings.